Wenger's Russia boycott doubts

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger doubts whether a boycott of the 2018 World Cup would be the best way to combat racism in Russia. The idea was suggested by Man City midfielder Yaya Toure after he claims he was racially abused by CSKA Moscow fans.

We're very disappointed that a clear agreed protocol which is designed to deal with these situations was not effected.

The player, having done what was asked of him to notify the referee, quite rightly expected that the referee would go speak with the safety officer, and the (UEFA) protocol agreed is that the safety officer should make a stadium announcement warning the fans that if the chants do not desist that the game will be stopped.

Obviously it's difficult in a pressure situation, referees have lots to think about but there are a number of officials at games, nothwithstanding the fact you've got additional referees behind the goals in Champions League matches.

Manchester City's Yaya Toure said he was "furious" at the alleged racist abuse he received from CSKA Moscow fans. Credit: Empics

UEFA is investigating allegations of racist abuse against Manchester City's Yaya Toure and has warned that clubs will no longer escape with just fines if their supporters are guilty of discriminatory behaviour.

UEFA's communications director David Farrelly told Press Association Sport: "In relation to the UEFA Champions League match between CSKA Moscow and Manchester City, we are waiting for the reports from the referee and the match delegate as they are our eyes and ears at the match.

"If one or more of a member association or club’s supporters engage in the behaviour described in paragraph 1, the member association or club responsible is punished with a minimum of a partial stadium closure."

Step Two

"...a second offence is punished with one match played behind closed doors and a fine of €50,000."

Step Three

"...any subsequent offence is punished with more than one match behind closed doors, a stadium closure, the forfeiting of a match, the deduction of points or disqualification from the competition."